A cyclist who helps blind and partially sighted people has been honoured at a national level.

Paul Stark from Mirfield was shortlisted for the Royal National Institute of Blind People’s (RNIB) Vision Pioneer Award for Voice of the Community and was a runner-up in his category.

The awards honour people who make a life-changing impact on lives of blind and partially sighted people.

Paul volunteers for Tandem Trekkers in Huddersfield, a tandem cycling club for blind and partially sighted people. Tandem Trekkers enables many blind and partially sighted people to get out and ride, some for the first time since losing their sight.

As well as dedicating much of his time to the club, Paul helps to organise and lead many of the rides. His guidance and support in recent years has helped the club grow and operate independently and Paul has successfully organised rides with other clubs.

The awards ceremony celebrates good practice within the sight loss and eye health sector and honours the achievements of professionals committed to supporting blind and partially sighted people. The event was sponsored by SpaMedica.

Brittany Stead, who nominated Paul for the award, said: “For some members this has been the first time they have been able to ride a bike since losing their sight. It’s greatly uplifted them and made them realise so much is possible.”

Paul said: “I was absolutely delighted to be nominated for this award. It’s a brilliant feeling to know that the sight loss and eye health sector values my commitment to supporting blind and partially sighted people.”

Sally Harvey, Chief Executive of RNIB, said: “When we set up the Vision Pioneer Awards we wanted to discover inspirational professionals, campaigns and projects that make a real difference to the lives of people with sight loss. All of those shortlisted demonstrate dedication and excellence, help to prevent sight loss or encourage and support blind and partially sighted people. We really value all of our finalists and the outstanding dedication they have shown.”